segmental autonomy

Segmental autonomy, also known as local government, refers to the authority to make decisions and implement policies within a defined, smaller geographic area within a larger state. This concept is present in every country, though its extent varies significantly. Local self-government emphasizes a locality's freedom to decide and act independently.

This can manifest as deconcentration, where functions are devolved to local administrative officials responsible to the central government, or decentralization, where authority is transferred to locally elected councils acting with discretion. Modern local government often blends these, with some powers exercised compulsorily under central control and others with more autonomy. This territorial distribution of power is key to local government.1

Federalism is a related concept where separate states or polities unite under an overarching system while retaining their integrity. This involves negotiation and shared decision-making, emphasizing dispersed power centers to safeguard liberties.2